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Li Tie ready for Blades switch

By Alex Dunn

Li Tie has told the Chinese press that he is closing on a move to Sheffield United.

Li Tie has told the Chinese press that he is closing on a move to Sheffield United following his release from Everton.

The 28-year-old China international has recently been informed he has no future at Goodison Park and is now on the lookout for new employers.

Li is eager to remain in England and it would appear his wish could be granted by Premiership new boys Sheffield United, who already hold strong links with China, courtesy of their ownership of the Chengdu Blades, a Chinese B-league team.

"Both sides are very positive," Li told the Beijing Times. "There are only a few remaining details to be discussed.

''Barring any surprises, we should be able to settle this by the start of next month."

Li's agent, Xu Hongtao, has confirmed that his client could secure a deal after the World Cup, of the opinion that Li will still be plying his trade in the top flight next season.

"At the latest, Li's formal signing will occur after the World Cup in Germany," he told Oriental Sports Daily.

Meanwhile, Blades chief Neil Warnock has admitted a charge of improper conduct following his side's game with Leeds last month.

Warnock was sent from the dug-out during the match on 18 April, and he has now requested a personal hearing despite accepting the Football Association's verdict of improper conduct.